Minimally Invasive Colon and Rectal Surgery
Less invasive techniques, including laparoscopic and robotic surgeries, have transformed colon and rectal surgeries. Small incisions mean less blood loss, less discomfort, a shorter hospital stay and a faster recovery. There is also a lower chance of infection and a less noticeable scar.
At the Weill Cornell Medicine Colon and Rectal Surgery Division, our surgeons specialize in many minimally invasive surgical techniques, producing the best surgical experiences and outcomes for our patients. In fact, our surgeons continue to revolutionize the way minimally invasive surgery is performed, providing more efficient, effective treatment options for patients.
Learn more about Weill Cornell Medicine’s Minimally Invasive New Technologies.
At Weill Cornell Medicine, we understand that it can be challenging or scary to undergo colon or rectal surgery. While not every patient is a candidate for minimally invasive surgery, our compassionate team of nurses, surgeons and staff will always prioritize your comfort and well-being throughout your care.
Why Choose Weill Cornell Medicine?
Proven leadership and exemplary results: Our surgeons are leaders in minimally invasive surgical treatments and have pioneered the use of advanced laparoscopic and robotic surgery for colorectal cancer. Specifically, our surgeons have the longest experience treating rectal cancer robotically than any other center in the country.
Read the leading research about robotic surgery for rectal cancer by our surgeons at Weill Cornell Medicine.
World-class care from leaders in minimally invasive techniques: Weill Cornell Medicine’s colon and rectal surgeons are nationally and internationally recognized for their pioneering efforts and extensive experience in minimally invasive surgery and state-of-the-art laparoscopic technologies.
Multidisciplinary care for comprehensive treatment and recovery: When you choose Weill Cornell Medicine, you have access to a network of doctors and specialists. This includes experts in gastrointestinal oncology, urogynecology and gastrointestinal medicine.
Weill Cornell Medicine partners with NewYork-Presbyterian, one of the top hospital systems in New York City and the U.S.
Conditions We Treat with Minimally Invasive Colon and Rectal Surgery
Our surgeons use minimally invasive surgical techniques to treat:
● Colon cancer
● Rectal cancer
● Rectal prolapse, which occurs when part of the large intestine (the rectum) stretches and protrudes from the anus. Surgery puts the rectum back in place.
● Pelvic floor disorders, such as vaginal prolapse
● Inflammatory bowel disease, including Crohn’s disease, diverticulitis and ulcerative colitis
Minimally Invasive Colon and Rectal Surgery Options
At Weill Cornell Medicine, our team offers the most advanced and comprehensive minimally invasive colon and rectal surgery options available.
Laparoscopic colon surgery or colectomy: Laparoscopic surgery is a minimally invasive technique in which small tubes with a light and camera attached are inserted into small incisions (cut) in the abdomen. The camera projects a high-definition image of the body onto a screen in the operating room. This image guides the surgeon to perform the specific surgery needed, without the need for a large incision.
Laparoscopic rectal prolapse repair: This procedure uses several small incisions in the abdomen. The surgeon inserts special surgical tools and a tiny camera through the abdominal incisions to repair the rectal prolapse.
Transanal endoscopic microsurgery (TEM) and transanal minimally invasive surgery (TAMIS): Both TEM and TAMIS are techniques that allow surgeons to remove polyps and early-stage cancerous tumors in the rectum using a port and microscopic lens placed in the rectum. This technology preserves a patient’s anal sphincter muscle control.
Robotic-assisted surgery: Robotic surgery, or robot-assisted surgery, involves the use of surgeon-guided, robotic arms that allow the surgeon to perform complex procedures with more precision and control than is possible with conventional techniques. With its enhanced visualization, it is most commonly used for tumors located in the sigmoid (the lower portion of the large bowel) and rectum.
What to Expect During Your Surgery at Weill Cornell Medicine
At Weill Cornell Medicine and NewYork-Presbyterian, we support our patients and their loved ones while they receive treatment. Learn more about what to expect during your stay.
Make an Appointment
Whether you visit us virtually through a video visit or you see us in person, you can be assured that we will deliver the highest standards of care with compassion. Our team has taken every step to keep our facilities safe for you to continue your care. Learn more about our safety measures and the changes we’ve made to enhance your patient experience.
If you would like a remote second opinion, we can connect you directly with expert physicians and specialists at the Weill Cornell Medicine Colon and Rectal Surgery Division. They will review your individual situation, answer your questions and provide you with information you can share with your family and local practitioner. You can then decide to come to our facilities for treatment or choose to stay in your hometown and receive treatment locally. Learn more at WCM OnDemand Second Opinion.
To request an appointment, please fill out our form. Our staff will help you find the physician who best fits your individual medical needs.
Meet Our Surgeons
The physicians at the Weill Cornell Medicine Colon and Rectal Surgery Division offer patients the highest level of safety and care. As a top-ranked academic medical center, you have access to our extensive network of specialists who provide seamless care throughout your treatment — to promote long-term physical and mental health.
